Compare under-glaze, in-glaze, and on-glaze techniques for your ceramic collection. Learn how to balance FDA compliance, durability, and budget for OEM/ODM.
In terms of ceramic OEM/ODM projects, one of the most important decisions to make is which type of decoration technique to use, as this will play a key role in determining both the unit price and shelf life of the product.
Knowing how the three main types of ceramic decoration are different from one another, specifically under-glaze, in-glazeund on-glaze, will allow you as a buyer to maximize your brand value while staying on budget.
Process Logic and Technical Comparison
The fundamental difference in decoration techniques lies in the relative position of the pigment and the glaze layer (protective layer), and the firing temperature.
1. Under-glaze: Ultimate Safety and Durability
- Process: Painting or applying decals to the unglazed body, then covering with a transparent glaze, and finally firing at high temperature (usually at [temperature]).
- Core Advantages: The pigment is completely sealed under the glaze, 100% preventing lead and cadmium leaching. The pattern is never worn away and is extremely dishwasher-safe.
- Limitations: Due to the high temperature, there are fewer color choices for pigments (mainly cobalt blue, underglaze red, etc.).
2. In-glaze: The Mainstream Choice for Modern Commerce
- Process: Applying decals followed by high-temperature rapid firing. At [temperature], the glaze softens, and the pigment sinks into the glaze.
- Core Advantages: Combines the safety of under-glaze with the rich colors of on-glaze. The surface is smooth, highly glossy, and has excellent corrosion resistance.
- Budget Positioning: Mid-to-high-end products, suitable for supermarket private labels and boutique retail.
3. On-glaze: Unlimited Color Expression
- Process: Applying decals to the already fired glazed surface, followed by low-temperature firing at [temperature].
- Core Advantages: Extremely vibrant colors, allowing for complex effects such as real gold, real silver, and embossing.
- Limitations: The patterns are exposed on the surface, and prolonged exposure to scratching from cutlery or strong alkaline detergents may lead to fading or wear.
Procurement Decision Matrix: Target Market vs. Process Selection
As a buyer, how should you make choices based on the pain points of your target market?
| Target Market | Core Pain Points | Recommended Process | Reason |
|---|---|---|---|
| North American/European Supermarkets | Strict dishwasher safety requirements, FDA/LFGB compliance. | Underglaze/In-glaze | Avoids recall risks due to excessive lead and cadmium levels, ensuring long-term colorfastness after washing. |
| Middle Eastern Wedding/Luxury Market | Visual impact, gold rim decoration, complex patterns. | On-glaze (including gold/silver) | On-glaze technology perfectly presents the luxurious metallic texture, meeting high-end aesthetic standards. |
| Brand OEM (Minimalist Style) | Extremely high color consistency, modern matte texture. | In-glaze | In-glaze provides uniform color blocks and excellent tactile stability. |
| Gifts/Home Decor | Strong seasonality, lower requirements for wear resistance. | On-glaze | Short development cycle, strong color expression, helps attract impulse purchases through visual appeal. |
Budget Optimization Strategies
- If on a limited budget (Low-Mid): Consider using on-glaze, simulating the in-glaze effect by selecting wear-resistant pigments, or choosing simple underglaze monochrome patterns.
- If targeting high-frequency use (Horeca/Daily Use): Investing in in-glaze is recommended. Although the initial unit price is slightly higher, the extremely low return rate and excellent brand reputation will lead to higher repeat purchases.
- If pursuing ultimate compliance (High-End Organic): Underglaze is the only option that can guarantee “zero leaching” for life.
Why Choose LovingHome as Your Partner?
LovingHome, established in 2004, is a professional manufacturer of ceramic tableware and home decor focusing on the global market. With over 20 years of experience in the industry, we deeply understand the market entry standards and aesthetic preferences of different markets.
- Comprehensive Production Processes: We are proficient in underglaze, in-glaze, and various complex overglaze decoration techniques, enabling us to precisely match production solutions to your budget.
- Top-Tier OEM/ODM Capabilities: We don’t just manufacture products; we also provide creative design services. Through efficient prototyping processes and highly competitive wholesale prices, we help brand owners transform their ideas into best-selling products.
- Rigorous Quality Control: Our products strictly comply with international standards. Whether it’s the high-frequency durability requirements for North American supermarkets or the environmental compliance requirements of the European market, LovingHome provides stable and reliable supply chain support.
Start Your Custom Project
If you are planning your next season’s ceramic tableware collection but are unsure which process best suits your cost targets, our expert team will provide you with a free process evaluation and quotation.
[ Contact LovingHome now for the latest product catalog and pricing ]
LovingHome: Making every piece of ceramic ware a perfect balance of practicality and aesthetics.
